Harry, the Duke of Sussex, found himself in a state of distress and tears after a U.S. judge declined to address him as prince during his immigration hearing.
The former royal, who relocated to the U.S. alongside his wife Meghan Markle and their son, Archie, in 2020, had sought a green card for permanent residency and work authorization in the country.
Despite encountering numerous hurdles and delays in the application process, Harry’s case eventually landed in court, where he faced Judge Robert Jones – a figure unmoved by his royal standing.
Judge Jones made it clear to Harry that in the United States, he was not recognized as royalty and therefore must adhere to the same regulations and procedures as any other immigrant.
This revelation shattered Harry’s aspirations of commencing a fresh chapter in his life and career within the U.S., where he and Meghan had secured lucrative partnerships with Netflix and Spotify, in addition to launching their foundation, Archwell.
The couple, who welcomed their daughter, Lilibet, in June 2021, had acquired an opulent estate in Montecito, California, where they entertained prominent figures like Oprah Winfrey, Barack Obama, and James Corden.
Despite his hopes of embracing American citizenship, Harry’s ambitions were dashed by Judge Jones, who exhibited no deference or empathy towards the prince, treating him as an ordinary immigrant.
Reports suggest that Judge Jones refused to acknowledge Harry’s royal title and insisted on using his legal name, Henry Charles Albert David Mountbatten-Wencer.
The judge demanded proof of Harry’s identity, education, income, and tax records, scrutinized his background and motivations for relocating to the U.S., challenged his public figure and humanitarian assertions, and accused him of forsaking his royal lineage and nation for personal gain.
Harry, taken aback and indignant at Judge Jones’ demeanor, endeavored to justify himself and appeal to the judge’s sense of fairness.
He argued that despite relinquishing his royal duties, he remained a royal and a British citizen, enjoying support and admiration from the American populace and government.
Harry highlighted his efforts to effect positive change and empower others in the U.S., professing his love for the country and his vision for the future.
However, Judge Jones remained resolute in his stance, emphasizing that Harry was not accorded any special privileges and must comply with standard immigration protocols.
Following the hearing, Judge Jones postponed his decision on Harry’s green card application.
News of Harry’s immigration ordeal was leaked to the media by a source close to the judge, triggering widespread controversy and backlash against the prince.
Many have censured Harry for his perceived arrogance, entitlement, and disregard for U.S. laws within its judicial system.
Questions have been raised regarding Harry’s intentions and alleged exploitation of the U.S. for personal and financial motives.
Criticism has mounted against Harry for what some view as betrayal towards his royal lineage and homeland, with calls for the rejection of his U.S. citizenship bid.